ISRO Geo Imaging Satellite GISAT 1
Recently, the launch of ISRO Geo-imaging satellite GSAT-1 (GISAT-1) has failed. Through this launch the ‘Earth Observation Satellite’ EOS-03 was to be placed in a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (OTO).
It was eventually scheduled to be launched to geosynchronous earth orbit (GEO) via a GSLV-FI0 rocket.
Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-03)
- This satellite is capable of real-time observation and imagery of the Earth; it can be used for quick monitoring of natural disasters, episodic events and any short-term events. This satellite was designed to serve for ten years.
- The mission failed as the cryogenic high stage (stage III of GSLV) could not be ignited due to a technical discrepancy.
- The cryogenic stage is the final stage of space launch vehicles. It uses liquid oxygen (LOX) and liquid hydrogen (LH2) as propellants.
About Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV):
- GSLV is a three-stage expandable space launch vehicle. It is used to launch satellites and other space objects into geostationary transfer orbit (GTO). It is designed, developed and operated by ISRO.
- GSLV Mark II is the largest launch vehicle built by India.
About GTO and GEO
- In GEO, satellites orbit the Earth over the equator from west to east, following the Earth’s rotation, traveling at the same speed as the Earth.
- Transfer classes are special types of classes. They are used to move from one class to another.
- Using relatively less energy from the inbuilt motors, the satellite or spacecraft can move from one orbit to another.
- This enables the satellite to be launched to a high-altitude orbit like GEO without actually needing a launch vehicle, which requires more effort.
Source – The Hindu
